"The National Board Certification process taught me to think outside the box. To this day, I have not found a professional development program or any process in the education community that rivals the National Board. Nothing comes close."
-Lewis Chappelear, National Board Certified teacher
2008 California Teacher of the Year
What is National Board Certification?
National Board Certification is a voluntary process that gives the recipient an advanced teaching credential which complements a state teacher license. The process is handled by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). This independent, nongovernmental organization was created in 1987 by a collection of teachers, policy makers and leaders in the academic fields as a way to develop high professional standards for teaching at the preschool to secondary school level. There are 25 categories of certification available for various grade levels and subject areas including not only teachers, but counselors, media center personnel and administrators.
It was found by the the National Research Council in a 2008 study that National Board Certification has a profound impact on student learning. Students who have a Board Certified teacher were found to score 7-15 percentage points higher on year-end tests than students of non-Board Certified teachers.
The mission of the NBPTS:
to maintain high and rigorous standards for what accomplished teachers should know and be able to do
to provide a national voluntary system for certifying teachers who meet those standards
to advocate related education reforms to integrate National Board Certification in American education and to capitalize on the expertise of National Board Certified teachers
What are the "high and rigorous standards" for teachers?
These propositions are the foundation for what all accomplished teachers should know and be able to do: Five Core Propositions
Teachers are committed to students and their learning.
Teachers know the subjects they teach and how to teach those subjects to students.
Teachers are responsible for managing and monitoring student learning.
Teachers think systematically about their practice and learn from experience.
Where does the basis for the 5 Core Propositions come from? The answer is from the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act of 2001. The NBPTS' 5 Core Propositions were revised to enhance the basic beliefs of what is defined as a Highly Qualified Teacher by the NCLB.
Success Rate of Candidates for NBC
•1993-2007: 99,300 applicants: 63,800 completed •National average: 3 NBPTS-certified teachers for every 5 schools •Percent increase in NBPTS certification in GA for 2009-2010 was 0.7%, versus 10.5% nationally •Total certified: GA, 2,604: nationally, 91,013
The process of becoming Board Certified can take anywhere from 1 to 3 years. If certification is not achieved in one year, candidates have up to 3 years from the start to retake selected portions of their original entries. Candidates must undergo 10 assessments in total that are reviewed by trained teachers in the certificate areas. These include 4 portfolio entries that feature specific teaching practices and 6 constructed response computer tests that assess content knowledge.
How long is a National Board Certificate good for?
The certificate is good for 10 years. It can be renewed in the 9th year by going through the NBPTS renewal process. For more information, go to the National Board renewal site
What is the certification process like?
1. A teacher with a college degree and a minimum of three years of full time employment as an educator or school counselour (or equivalent part-time as per the Candidate Employment Verification Form provided by NBPTS) must pay a $65 non-refundable processing fee, a $2500 qualifying fee and complete the following activities: a. Professional Portfolios: 4 entries b. Assessment Centre Activities: 6 assessments.
2. To be considered for certification, the candidate has up to three years to complete and summit his/her work and submit to the Board.
3. After submitting all of the above materials, make an appointment 30 days before your test date.
4. Once you have successfully entered your portfolio and completed your assessment, your complete work will be scored by a minimum of 12 teachers who have successfully completed intensive training and have been qualified for scoring based on their understanding of NBPTS standards and guidelines.
5. Once all of the tests are scored, they are posted online December 31st for the test-taker to view.
“National Board Certified Teachers”. Georgia Public Standards Commission: Atlanta, GA. Undated. http://www.gapsc.com/nationalboard/home.asp .Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/26/2011 Georgia Professional Standards Commission instructions on National Board Certification process.
What are the entries on the portfolio?Three (3) classroom-based entries of which, at least two, are video recordings of teacher-students interaction in the classroom. Entries to include:
Specific student-work within specific parameters.
Direct evidence of teaching.
A commentary that includes description, analysis, and reflections on the evidence submitted.
One entry documenting the work done by the teacher at the family, community, professional level that shows the impact beyond the classroom (s)he has made on student learning. “FAQ’s: Portfolio”. National Board for Professional Certification Standards: Alexandria, VA. 2011. http://www.nbpts.org/help_and_faqs/portfolio Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/27/2011 What are the assessments activities?The teacher completes 6 assessments developed by teachers practicing in the content area. Each assessment is to be completed at a computer based testing facilities managed by Pearson Vue and is limited to 30 minutes. “FAQ’s: Assessment”. National Board for Professional Certification Standards: Alexandria, VA. 2011. http://nbpts.org/help_and_faqs/assessmentAccessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/27/2011
Will I receive any professional support?
Candidates who would like to undertake this professional voyage can join the "Take One!" Program or reach out to local mentors or mentoring groups that will guide them in their professional development plan culminating in NBPTS Certification: Take One! "Take One! is a professional development opportunity that is based on the National Board Certification assessment program. Take One! participants study the NBPTS standards, complete a video portfolio entry featuring a classroom of preK-12 students and submit the entry to NBPTS for scoring in accordance with the deadlines and policies of the current NBPTS assessment program." “FAQ's:Take One!”. National Board for Professional Certification Standards: Alexandria, VA. 2011.http://www.nbpts.org/help_and_faqs/take_one#2660Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/29/2011
Mentoring Networks: “For NBCT's: Network Affiliates”. National Board for Professional Certification Standards: Alexandria, VA. 2011 http://www.nbpts.org/for_nbcts/network_affiliates Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/29/2011
Current NBCT's Network Affiliates/Mentors in GA: “NBCT's Direnctory”.http://www.nbpts.org/resources/nbct_directory National Board for Professional Certification Standards: Alexandria, VA. 2011. Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/29/2011
"Handbook for Affiliate Network: A Resource Guide: Supporting Candidate for National Board Cerification". PDF. pg. 18.
National Board for Professional Certification Standards: Alexandria, VA. 2011
Available Financial Aid
Georgia has a prepayment program and offers to pay for the cost the teacher will incur to certify. The payment is a provided in the form of a loan that will be forgiven once the candidate successfully completes certification.
In order to qualify for this, the candidate must adhere to a strict application timeline imposed by GPCS:
Candidate must file an “Intent to Apply to NBPTS. ” electronic form on the
Commission website prior to commencing the process.
Candidate must pay the non-refundable $65 fee to NBPTS.
Candidate must pay the non-refundable and non-renewable $500 qualifying fee.
Candidate can apply for prepayment of the application fee with the Commission and will receive the funds accompanied by a promissory note for the full amount.
Candidates who successfully complete the process and obtain certification will receive forgiveness for the amount prepaid by the commission.
Candidates who do not complete the process, fail to obtain certification, do not properly withdraw from the process and do not receive a refund from NBPTS are to reimburse the Commission for ANY funds it prepaid in their name.
“National Board Certified Teachers”. Georgia Public Standards Commission: Atlanta, GA. Undated. http://www.gapsc.com/nationalboard/home.asp . Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/26/2011 Georgia Professional Standards Commission instructions on National Board Certification process.
Pre-requisites for NBPTS Certification:
PRIOR to applying the candidate must have:
A bachelor's degree*
Completed 3 full years of teaching/counseling
Possess a valid state teaching/counseling license for that period of time, or, if teaching where a license is not required, have taught in schools recognized and approved to operate by the state
*The degree must be from accredited institution which is authorized as fulfilling states education requirement for initial teaching licensure or school counseling. (Schools outside of country must submit proof that degree is similar)
The Georgia Professional Standard Commission advises prospective candidates to take the"The Knowledgeable Teacher Course" to help them evaluate whether they are ready to start the process. The GPSC website lists the sites approved to offer this course and the schedule for it.
How does National Board Certification benefit you as a teacher?
-Strengthens teaching practice
- Helps students succeed
- leadership skills
- Can help to advance your career
- In many cases allows movement from state to state
- Enhances education
- Meets most states definition of "highly qualified"
What are some financial incentives?
Starting in the 1990’s, teachers who successfully completed National Certification received an additional stipend equivalent to 10% of their salary. In 2006 the guidelines for the stipend were reviewed and the benefit was limited to teachers employed in high need schools. In 2009, it was reduced again to 5%. At this time, teachers who successfully complete the certification process do not receive the stipend they had received in years past (As a result of the cuts, some counties have been creative in their ways to reward these teachers by trying to limit additional local cuts to their salaries).
“Georgia Slashes Teachers Bonuses” Badertscher, N, Salzer, J. 26 September 2009, AJC on line edition: Atlanta GA. http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-slashes-teacher-bonuses-147440.html Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/26/2011 PAGE on National Board Professional Teaching Standards Certification: Teachers who intend to apply for certification need to declare their intent on the GA Public Service Commission website and strictly follow the commission guidelines, steps, and deadlines to make sure they do not jeopardize their chances to access financial support for the process. “Application Process and Cost”. Professional Association of Georgia Educators: Atlanta GA. http://www.pageinc.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=113 Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/26/2011 State position on financial support to teachers who complete certification: The Georgia House of Representatives expressed the intent to resume funding for stipends to the teachers who successfully complete the National Board Certification but did not commit to when this will happen, limiting its commitment to resume funding the program when sufficient financial means were to become available again. “HR248:National Board Certified Teachers; Intent to Fund; Express”, 3/21/11 Georgia General Assembly: Atlanta GA. http://www1.legis.ga.gov/legis/2011_12/sum/hr248.htm Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/26/2011
PAGE and NBPTS position on HR 248 The HR demonstrates the GA House understands the importance of Board Certification and the impact it has on education in GA classrooms and for this reason has committed to restore funding when possible. The parties involved in teachers policies expressed different views on the significance of the HR 248: from confusion on what it will actually mean for teachers, to hope in the House good faith in doing what is right for our teachers and children, to confidence that the stipends will be restored once funds will be available. All parties involved have shown commitment to mobilize and demonstrate to state officials what the impact of certification actually is in the field. “No money, but hope of some for National Board Certified Teachers”, Badertscher, N., 4 April 2011, AJC on line edition: Atlanta GA. http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-politics-elections/no-money-but-hope-897144.html Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/26/2011 GPSC on NBPTS House Bill 243 [ERRATA CORRIGE HR 248] enacted salary increases for teachers who successfully complete the certification process but did not fund them for the current year.
How does NBTS certification influence job security?
"The National Board Certification process taught me to think outside the box. To this day, I have not found a professional development program or any process in the education community that rivals the National Board. Nothing comes close."
-Lewis Chappelear, National Board Certified teacher
2008 California Teacher of the Year
What is National Board Certification?
National Board Certification is a voluntary process that gives the recipient an advanced teaching credential which complements a state teacher license. The process is handled by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). This independent, nongovernmental organization was created in 1987 by a collection of teachers, policy makers and leaders in the academic fields as a way to develop high professional standards for teaching at the preschool to secondary school level. There are 25 categories of certification available for various grade levels and subject areas including not only teachers, but counselors, media center personnel and administrators.It was found by the the National Research Council in a 2008 study that National Board Certification has a profound impact on student learning. Students who have a Board Certified teacher were found to score 7-15 percentage points higher on year-end tests than students of non-Board Certified teachers.
The mission of the NBPTS:
What are the "high and rigorous standards" for teachers?
These propositions are the foundation for what all accomplished teachers should know and be able to do:Five Core Propositions
For a more detailed look...Five Core Propositions
Where does the basis for the 5 Core Propositions come from?
The answer is from the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act of 2001. The NBPTS' 5 Core Propositions were revised to enhance the basic beliefs of what is defined as a Highly Qualified Teacher by the NCLB.
Success Rate of Candidates for NBC
•1993-2007: 99,300 applicants: 63,800 completed
•National average: 3 NBPTS-certified teachers for every 5 schools
•Percent increase in NBPTS certification in GA for 2009-2010 was 0.7%, versus 10.5% nationally
•Total certified: GA, 2,604: nationally, 91,013
“National Board Certification Statistics”.
http://www.nbpts.org/about_us/national_board_certifica1/national_board_certifica National Board for Professional Certification Standards: Alexandria, VA. 2011.
Accessed by Elisa Cousins 29, June, 2011
How long does it take?
The process of becoming Board Certified can take anywhere from 1 to 3 years. If certification is not achieved in one year, candidates have up to 3 years from the start to retake selected portions of their original entries. Candidates must undergo 10 assessments in total that are reviewed by trained teachers in the certificate areas. These include 4 portfolio entries that feature specific teaching practices and 6 constructed response computer tests that assess content knowledge.How long is a National Board Certificate good for?
The certificate is good for 10 years. It can be renewed in the 9th year by going through the NBPTS renewal process. For more information, go to the National Board renewal site
What is the certification process like?
1. A teacher with a college degree and a minimum of three years of full time employment as an educator or school counselour (or equivalent part-time as per the Candidate Employment Verification Form provided by NBPTS) must pay a $65 non-refundable processing fee, a $2500 qualifying fee and complete the following activities:
a. Professional Portfolios: 4 entries
b. Assessment Centre Activities: 6 assessments.
2. To be considered for certification, the candidate has up to three years to complete and summit his/her work and submit to the Board.
3. After submitting all of the above materials, make an appointment 30 days before your test date.
4. Once you have successfully entered your portfolio and completed your assessment, your complete work will be scored by a minimum of 12 teachers who have successfully completed intensive training and have been qualified for scoring based on their understanding of NBPTS standards and guidelines.
5. Once all of the tests are scored, they are posted online December 31st for the test-taker to view.
“National Board Certified Teachers”. Georgia Public Standards Commission: Atlanta, GA. Undated. http://www.gapsc.com/nationalboard/home.asp .Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/26/2011
Georgia Professional Standards Commission instructions on National Board Certification process.
What are the entries on the portfolio?Three (3) classroom-based entries of which, at least two, are video recordings of teacher-students interaction in the classroom.
Entries to include:
- Specific student-work within specific parameters.
- Direct evidence of teaching.
- A commentary that includes description, analysis, and reflections on the evidence submitted.
One entry documenting the work done by the teacher at the family, community, professional level that shows the impact beyond the classroom (s)he has made on student learning.“FAQ’s: Portfolio”. National Board for Professional Certification Standards: Alexandria, VA. 2011. http://www.nbpts.org/help_and_faqs/portfolio Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/27/2011
What are the assessments activities?The teacher completes 6 assessments developed by teachers practicing in the content area. Each assessment is to be completed at a computer based testing facilities managed by Pearson Vue and is limited to 30 minutes.
“FAQ’s: Assessment”. National Board for Professional Certification Standards: Alexandria, VA. 2011. http://nbpts.org/help_and_faqs/assessment Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/27/2011
Will I receive any professional support?
Candidates who would like to undertake this professional voyage can join the "Take One!" Program or reach out to local mentors or mentoring groups that will guide them in their professional development plan culminating in NBPTS Certification:
Take One!
"Take One! is a professional development opportunity that is based on the National Board Certification assessment program. Take One! participants study the NBPTS standards, complete a video portfolio entry featuring a classroom of preK-12 students and submit the entry to NBPTS for scoring in accordance with the deadlines and policies of the current NBPTS assessment program."
“FAQ's:Take One!”. National Board for Professional Certification Standards: Alexandria, VA. 2011.http://www.nbpts.org/help_and_faqs/take_one#2660 Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/29/2011
Mentoring Networks:
“For NBCT's: Network Affiliates”. National Board for Professional Certification Standards: Alexandria, VA. 2011
http://www.nbpts.org/for_nbcts/network_affiliates
Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/29/2011
Current NBCT's Network Affiliates/Mentors in GA:
“NBCT's Direnctory”.http://www.nbpts.org/resources/nbct_directory National Board for Professional Certification Standards: Alexandria, VA. 2011. Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/29/2011
"Handbook for Affiliate Network: A Resource Guide: Supporting Candidate for National Board Cerification". PDF. pg. 18.
National Board for Professional Certification Standards: Alexandria, VA. 2011
Available Financial Aid
Georgia has a prepayment program and offers to pay for the cost the teacher will incur to certify. The payment is a provided in the form of a loan that will be forgiven once the candidate successfully completes certification.
In order to qualify for this, the candidate must adhere to a strict application timeline imposed by GPCS:
- Candidate must file an “Intent to Apply to NBPTS. ” electronic form on the
Commission website prior to commencing the process.“National Board Certified Teachers”. Georgia Public Standards Commission: Atlanta, GA. Undated. http://www.gapsc.com/nationalboard/home.asp .
Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/26/2011
Georgia Professional Standards Commission instructions on National Board Certification process.
Pre-requisites for NBPTS Certification:
PRIOR to applying the candidate must have:
*The degree must be from accredited institution which is authorized as fulfilling states education requirement for initial teaching licensure or school counseling. (Schools outside of country must submit proof that degree is similar)
The Georgia Professional Standard Commission advises prospective candidates to take the"The Knowledgeable Teacher Course" to help them evaluate whether they are ready to start the process. The GPSC website lists the sites approved to offer this course and the schedule for it.
http://www.gapsc.com/nationalboard/home.asp Georgia Public Standards Commission: Atlanta, GA. 15 April 2011. Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/29/2011
How does National Board Certification benefit you as a teacher?
-Strengthens teaching practice- Helps students succeed
- leadership skills
- Can help to advance your career
- In many cases allows movement from state to state
- Enhances education
- Meets most states definition of "highly qualified"
What are some financial incentives?
Starting in the 1990’s, teachers who successfully completed National Certification received an additional stipend equivalent to 10% of their salary. In 2006 the guidelines for the stipend were reviewed and the benefit was limited to teachers employed in high need schools. In 2009, it was reduced again to 5%.
At this time, teachers who successfully complete the certification process do not receive the stipend they had received in years past (As a result of the cuts, some counties have been creative in their ways to reward these teachers by trying to limit additional local cuts to their salaries).
“Georgia Slashes Teachers Bonuses” Badertscher, N, Salzer, J. 26 September 2009, AJC on line edition: Atlanta GA.
http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-slashes-teacher-bonuses-147440.html
Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/26/2011
PAGE on National Board Professional Teaching Standards Certification:
Teachers who intend to apply for certification need to declare their intent on the GA Public Service Commission website and strictly follow the commission guidelines, steps, and deadlines to make sure they do not jeopardize their chances to access financial support for the process.
“Application Process and Cost”. Professional Association of Georgia Educators: Atlanta GA. http://www.pageinc.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=113
Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/26/2011
State position on financial support to teachers who complete certification:
The Georgia House of Representatives expressed the intent to resume funding for stipends to the teachers who successfully complete the National Board Certification but did not commit to when this will happen, limiting its commitment to resume funding the program when sufficient financial means were to become available again.
“HR248: National Board Certified Teachers; Intent to Fund; Express”, 3/21/11 Georgia General Assembly: Atlanta GA.
http://www1.legis.ga.gov/legis/2011_12/sum/hr248.htm Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/26/2011
PAGE and NBPTS position on HR 248
The HR demonstrates the GA House understands the importance of Board Certification and the impact it has on education in GA classrooms and for this reason has committed to restore funding when possible. The parties involved in teachers policies expressed different views on the significance of the HR 248: from confusion on what it will actually mean for teachers, to hope in the House good faith in doing what is right for our teachers and children, to confidence that the stipends will be restored once funds will be available. All parties involved have shown commitment to mobilize and demonstrate to state officials what the impact of certification actually is in the field.
“No money, but hope of some for National Board Certified Teachers”, Badertscher, N., 4 April 2011, AJC on line edition: Atlanta GA.
http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-politics-elections/no-money-but-hope-897144.html
Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/26/2011
GPSC on NBPTS
House Bill 243 [ERRATA CORRIGE HR 248] enacted salary increases for teachers who successfully complete the certification process but did not fund them for the current year.
How does NBTS certification influence job security?
“Get Schooled Blog, Non-Renewals: The Scarlet Letter of Teaching”. Downey, M. 5 May 2010, AJC on line edition: Atlanta GA.
http://blogs.ajc.com/get-schooled-blog/2010/05/05/non-renewals-the-scarlet-letter-of-teaching/
Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/27/2011
“1500 Teachers in Metro Are Likely to Lose Jobs” Pickerel, M.L. 5 May 2010, AJC on line edition: Atlanta GA.
http://www.ajc.com/news/1-500-teachers-in-519824.html . Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/27/2011
“General Legal Questions” Professional Association of Georgia Educators: Atlanta, GA. Undated.
http://pageinc.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=7
Accessed by Elisa C. Cousins on 6/27/2011
Jill Hay PAGE General Counsel (personal electronic communication, May 6,2010)
General process questions
National Board Certification Website
2010 Q&A Guide for Teachers and Other EducatorsNBC Frequently asked questions on assesment
NBC Standards for Certification